PMP Certification Prerequisites

What is PMP Certification?

PMP is a globally recognized credential for project managers. However, professionals must meet the specific eligibility requirements of the PMP. The certification influences career growth and improves leadership capabilities. A study reveals that by 2027, nearly 2.2 million project management-oriented jobs will come into existence. As it is a prestigious certification in the project management industry, it has strong PMP exam eligibility requirements.

Why are the PMP exam eligibility requirements essential? As we all know, the PMP is a high-level professional certification that requires theoretical & practical knowledge. The certification exam is complex and requires an in-depth understanding of project management. So, before applying for the PMP exam, check the PMP exam eligibility requirements and make sure that you fulfill the PMP eligibility criteria. 

Read more: PMP Training Curriculum

Why Get  PMP Certified?

Project management certification is among the most prestigious in the field. However, is this certification worthwhile? Before explaining the PMP certification prerequisites, let’s discuss briefly:

• Career Growth:The PMI salary survey found that certified professionals earn 25% more than their non-certified peers. 

• Worldwide Recognition: The certification provides global recognition and opportunities for professionals across industries.

• Enhance Skills: Professionals can acquire the standardized practices and technical skills to manage projects.

• Professional Network: Certification opens doors to vast project management communities that help one another grow in a competitive market.

• Competitive Edge: PMP provides professionals with a competitive advantage and better job opportunities.

Who should Apply for PMP®?

According to PMI, the certification is appropriate for professionals working with planning and leading projects. Those who can pursue the certification are listed below:

• Project Managers Managing Complex Projects
• Team Leaders to Improve their Professional Positions
• Program and Delivery Managers of Cross-Functional Projects
• Construction, IT, and Manufacturing Professionals
• Business Analysts, Consultants, and Product Owners

What are the PMP Certification Eligibility Requirements?

Taking the PMP certification training course showcases your ability to initiate, plan, execute, control, and close projects effectively. To qualify for this esteemed PMP, you must meet the PMP exam eligibility requirements established by the Project Management Institute (PMI). 

Pathways to Meet PMP Eligibility Requirements

The PMP eligibility requirements are differentiated in three ways to make it simple and understandable:

 Path A Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent

• At least 60 months (5 years) of experience leading and managing projects within the last 8 years

• 35 hours of project management training through the PMI Authorized Training Partners.

 Path B Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher or global equivalent

• 36 months (3 years) of experience in leading and managing projects within the last 8 years

• 35 hours of project management training through the PMI Authorized On-Demand PMP Exam Prep course.

 Path C Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher or global equivalent from a GAC-accredited program

• At least 24 months (2 years) of experience in leading and managing projects within the last eight years

• 35 hours of project management training through the PMI Authorized Training Partners.

Read More:PMP Certification Cost

What Qualifies as Project Management Experience?

Project management experience spans from project conception to completion. Examples of project management experience include:

• Guide a team to complete a specific project or organize large-scale projects.
• Managing multiple projects' budgets and deliverables.
• Managing project plans, timelines, and resources.
• Coordinating project stakeholders and vendors.
• Monitor project progress and adjust the requirements.
• Work on risk assessment and mitigate the risks.
• Using various media to communicate with stakeholders. 

What are the Ways to Get Project Management Experience Without a PMP?

If the professionals don’t have enough experience to achieve the PMP requirements, we mention some ways to gather the expertise to complete the PMP eligibility requirements:

•  Volunteer Experience:A short-term volunteer role that helps organizations or individuals gain financial benefits.
• Attend Project Management Training: Attending project management courses can help professionals learn the latest tools and techniques. It will be considered as a project management experience in the future.
• Join Professional Community:Join PMI to access project management resources, training, and networking opportunities. In addition, the memberships help the professionals to gain additional project management experience.
• Find a Mentor: Project management mentors can guide you and provide you with feedback on your skills  & capabilities.

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What are the Benefits of PMP®?

The credential helps professionals advance their careers and enables employers to identify candidates with the necessary skills. Here are some benefits of PMP:

• Career Advancement Opportunities: The certification opens multiple doors in career development. The skills and expertise acquired through the certification are valued globally.
• Global Recognition: The certification signifies a professional's competence in project management. Professionals can take part in international projects & growth.
• Enhanced Skills: PMP is more than just learning; it provides real-world scenarios that help develop practical skills and knowledge.
• Develops Comprehensive Knowledge: The certification provides a deeper understanding of project management and best practices.  It empowered professionals to adapt methodologies to project needs.
• Communication and Leadership Skills: The training enables professionals to improve their leadership skills and keep the team together, solve problems, and work towards the goal.
• Risk Management Expertise: A comprehensive understanding of risk management helps in handling uncertainties in projects. It allows professionals to proactively identify potential risks, enabling preemptive measures to mitigate them.
• Strengthens Professional Network: The professionals will have access to a network of other certified professionals. It helps with networking and professional development.

Read our PMP Certification Benefits info page to explore more details about PMP benefits and opportunities.

What is the PMP® Application Process?

Step-by-step guidance for your PMP application:

• Gather information: To apply for the PMP exam, you must meet the PMP eligibility criteria. Professionals must have training certificates, project documentation, and contact information for references.
• Complete the Application: Provide all the necessary personal information, education details, project experience details, and training documentation.
• Review the Application: Any mistakes or inconsistencies can lead to rejection. After checking, proceed to select the payment processing.
• Schedule Exam: After completing payment, select the date and time, along with the testing centres or an online proctored exam.
• Become Certified: Start practicing and attending mock tests to pass the exam on your first try.

Explore more details about the PMP certification process!

What are the Subsequent Steps if Unable to Meet the PMP Eligibility Requirements?

You can start gradually to pursue the desired goal. If you are unable to meet the PMP eligibility requirements, the CAPM is a better option for you right now. You can start a project management career with the CAPM certification and upgrade to the PMP after gaining experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you apply for the exam before attending a PMP course?

It is necessary to have 35 hours of training to pursue the exam. So, without training, you can apply for the exam, but you must complete the course before your application is approved.  

2. How many PDUs are needed to maintain PMP®?

You need to earn 60 PDUs over the next 3 years to maintain your PMP credential. It signifies your professional commitments and continuous upgradation.

3. What is the cost to renew your PMP credential?

It costs $60 for PMI members and $150 for non-members, every, plus 60 PDUs to maintain the credential. 

4. What are the salary benefits of PMP-certified professionals?

The certification helps professionals boost their salaries by approximately 20-30% compared to their non-certified peers. 

5. How to maintain the PMP credentials?

You need to earn 60 PDUs within the 3 years through training and webinars; in addition, participants need to pay the renewal fees to maintain the certificate. 

6. How long does it take to earn a PMP credential?

It entirely depends on your dedication and understanding of the concept. In general, it takes 2 to 6 months from training to preparation and final certification. Simpliaxis’s compact training and guidance can help professionals easily achieve the certification. 

7. How long is the PMP® valid?

The certification is valid for 3 years. Within 3 years, you need to renew your certification to maintain your credential.

8. What to do if you are not eligible for PMP®?

You can go for the CAPM certification and start your project management career. It will help you gain hands-on experience on projects and later help you with your PMP®.

9. Can self-employed individuals apply for PMP®?

Yes. They can apply for the PMP credential, but must meet the PMP eligibility requirements.  They can demonstrate their business responsibilities by leading teams, managing vendors, communicating, and delivering. 

10. Can I take the PMP® exam without prior experience?

No. PMP eligibility requirements are mandatory to take the exam; without meeting the eligibility requirements, you cannot apply for the PMP®.

11. Who benefits from the PMP®?

The certification widens the opportunities for project leadership roles across various industries. It can help Project Managers, Team Leads, Program Managers, Business Analysts, and Product Owners advance their careers. 

12. What is the format of the PMP exam?

The total number of questions should be 180, of which 5 are unscored pre-test questions. The question format should include MCQs (multiple-choice responses), matching, hotspot, limited drag-and-drop, and fill-in-the-blank. The duration of the exam is 230 minutes with two optional breaks. The exam questions are based on people, processes, and the business environment. 

13. Why is the PMP® credential important?

It boosts earning potential and increases job opportunities, which enhances career growth. It makes professionals more marketable, credible,& recognized worldwide as proficient industry experts. 

14. What are the career opportunities for PMP®?

It opens doors to diverse project management roles across industries for Project Managers, Program Managers, Portfolio Managers, Project Directors, IT Project Managers, and Project Consultants.

15. What resources are provided for PMP training? 

Simpliaxis provides PMBOK® Guide, Agile Practice Guide, affinity board, practice tests, and case-study-based learning. We provide comprehensive training so that the professionals can pass the exam easily. 

16. How to book the PMP exam?

First, you need to get approval on the PMI website by detailing your project experience and educational qualifications. After payment, schedule your exam date and time based on your availability.